Daniel Chapter 1 Daniel stands firm

This chapter sets the scene for the first six chapters of Daniel. Nebuchadnezzars, a shrewd ruler was keen to utilise the people resources which he had acquired by conquest. Daniel and some of his friends seem to have been especially selected as worthy of particular education - a course to prepare them for court and official positions. This would expose them to the culture, literature and customs of Babylonia, lose their Jewish distinctiveness and become in effect Babylonians.

What can we learn from this chapter about the court life of Babylon - the environment into which God had brought Daniel to be His witness?

From verses 1-15 identify some things which could have concerned the exiles in relation to their own worship and culture. What is the significance of the recorded actions of the Babylonians?

In what dilemma did Daniel find himself because of his purpose to be true to God?

Would you consider his attitude about the food provided to be over-scrupulous? See Deut 12:23ff.

In this situation we are given an insight into Daniel’s character and attitude to God and his captors. What is distinctive?

How did God use their obedience to further His purposes on a larger scale?

In what other ways is the Sovereign God seen fulfilling His purposes in this chapter?

Daniel took a stand against the food which would “defile him”.

Consider Mark 7:15 and Matt. 5:29ff in the light of Daniel’s action.

What might be our equivalent today and on what condition would it be right to risk your life for so small a matter?

Is there a principle in Daniel’s behaviour which we need to consider: What makes us spiritually distinctive? How far should we accommodate ourselves to the way of life of the non-Christian people around us? (what are the dangers in going to either extreme?)

To ponder:

Where might these principles impact on your life?

How could this chapter be an encouragement to you?